Pamela

Clarissa by Samuel Richardson (1748)

Richardson’s second epistolary novel also focuses on a virtuous young woman who tries to resist the seductions of a rakish man. However, Clarissa explores the struggles of a woman with an unsupportive rather than loving family and features a darker, more tragic plot.

• Clarissa on SuperSummary

Shamela by Henry Fielding (1741)

Shortly after the publication of Pamela, English novelist Henry Fielding responded with a satirical novel revealing the “true story” of Pamela’s background. In this satire and critique, Pamela is revealed to have been a conniving and scheming woman looking to elevate her social station by seducing the idiotic Squire Booby.

• Shamela on SuperSummary

Joseph Andrews by Henry Fielding (1742)

Fielding’s novel is another satirical response to Richardson’s novel. It features an episodic plot focused on a young, lower-class man identified as Pamela’s brother. It also inverts the seduction plot of Richardson’s novel, focusing on the misadventures of Joseph as he tries to avoid the lechery of various women.

• Joseph Andrews on SuperSummary